BURBANK, California - Somebody had to think of it, and it was a foregone conclusion that it would be somebody in California: a rent-a-car service that lets you check out your choice of the latest hybrid vehicles. EQO has just launched a Web site, eQocar.com, that lets you rent hybrids such as the Toyota Prius and , with plans to expand as high upmarket as the Fisker and hybrid exoticars.

EQO says its target customers are 'motion picture studios, corporations, celebrities, affluent eco-friendly groups, concept-car enthusiasts, conventions and travel.' In addition to the Toyotas, the company lists the Ford Escape, Lexus LS 600h L and GMC Yukon/Chevrolet Tahoe, and Toyota Highlander hybrids. Rates start at $59 per day for the Toyota Prius and climb to $159 per day for the Yukon, Tahoe and Highlander - and to $650 per day for the Lexus LS 600h L. 

Plans are to add the Chevrolet Volt, hybrid versions of the Chrysler Aspen, Cadillac Escalade and Porsche Cayenne and - and the Smart - to the rental fleet once they hit the marketplace. At the top of the eco-car food chain will be the Aptera, Fisker Automotive and Tesla sports car hybrids.

A spokesman says the company is negotiating to open four additional branches, all in Southern California. More details are at Eqocar's Web site.